CERCI

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Community Centre

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Marvila

Location

Located in the vibrant Marvila area of Lisbon, CERCI is situated in a neighborhood that mirrors the evolution of the capital. Marvila, known for its industrial heritage and proximity to the Tagus River, has been transforming into a dynamic urban space where older buildings coexist with new infrastructure. This area, once a manufacturing hub, is now an example of the city's regeneration, with an atmosphere that blends its working-class past with growing cultural and social diversity. CERCI's presence in this context underscores the importance of social solidarity initiatives at the heart of Lisbon's community.

A Pioneering Initiative

CERCI's history is intrinsically linked to the awakening of social consciousness in Portugal, particularly from the second half of the 1970s onwards. Born from the initiative of parents, technicians, and other citizens concerned with the reality of individuals with intellectual disabilities, CERCI Lisbon is part of a solidarity movement that marked a rupture. Before its emergence, the support offered was predominantly welfare-based. The first CERCI's, including Lisbon's, were pioneers in creating special education schools, establishing a new paradigm that aimed for autonomy and empowerment, rather than mere passive assistance. This aspect reflects a significant chapter in the evolution of rights and support for people with disabilities in the country.

A Symbol of Inclusion

More than a physical structure, CERCI Lisbon represents a continuous symbol of solidarity and community effort towards inclusion. Its existence and purpose reflect a dedication to offering tailored responses to the needs of children, youth, and adults with disabilities. Over the decades, it has been a pillar in promoting quality of life, well-being, and individual empowerment, actively contributing to a more equitable and inclusive society. The institution functions as a reference point for social intervention and a testament to a community's ability to organize itself to support its members, affirming values of dignity and social participation.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt